Officials report first case of West Nile virus in Colorado this year
DELTA COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has reported its first case of West Nile virus this year.
Health officials say a resident in Delta County first reported the case on Wednesday. The West Nile virus is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito.
Weekly mosquito testing for the virus began statewide in June. This year, the counties of Larimer, Delta and Weld have reported virus-positive mosquitoes. However, CDPHE is encouraging everyone to take precautions since not all counties and municipalities test mosquitoes.
“When the virus is present, people are at risk, but there are simple precautions people can take to protect themselves,” said Jennifer House, state public health veterinarian. “Use an effective insect repellent, wear protective clothing, or stay indoors when mosquitoes are active, and mosquito-proof your home.”
Most human West Nile virus cases are reported in August and September. Colorado had 122 human cases of West Nile virus in 2019, with a total of eight deaths.
Officials say most people with the virus don't show any symptoms. About 20% of infected people experience flu-like symptoms, and less than 1% develop a serious, potentially deadly illness. People over the age of 60 and those with certain medical conditions are at greater risk.
The state department released the following guidelines to protect yourself.
To protect yourself:
- Use insect repellents when you go outdoors. Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and some oil of lemon eucalyptus, and para-menthane-diol products provide the best protection. Follow label instructions.
- Limit outdoor activities at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus are most active.
- Wear protective clothing (long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and socks) in areas where mosquitoes are active. Spray clothes with insect repellent for extra protection.
To mosquito-proof your home:
- Drain standing water around your house often. Empty water from tires, cans, flowerpots, clogged gutters, rain barrels, birdbaths, toys, and puddles.
- Install or repair screens on windows and doors.
